Broncos LB Miller will sit for six games for doping

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — Broncos linebacker Von Miller will serve a six-game suspension under the NFL's substance-abuse policy, a violation the linebacker said did not result from a positive test.

The Associated Press

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — Broncos linebacker Von Miller will serve a six-game suspension under the NFL's substance-abuse policy, a violation the linebacker said did not result from a positive test.

The league wanted a longer penalty for the third-year linebacker, but the sides agreed to less than half the season, said a person familiar with the negotiations.

The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity Tuesday because details about the negotiations were not public.

According to the NFL, Miller is eligible to play and practice through the last two preseason games. His suspension, without pay, will begin Aug. 31. He can return to the team Oct. 14, the day after Denver's home game against Jacksonville, and will be eligible for an Oct. 20 contest at the Indianapolis Colts.

After being notified of the decision, Miller released a statement saying "although my suspension doesn't result from a positive test, there is no excuse for my violations of the rules."

"I made mistakes and my suspension has hurt my team, Broncos fans, and myself," he said. "I am especially sorry for the effect of my bad decisions on others. I will not make the same mistakes about adhering to the policy in the future. During my time off the field, I will work tirelessly and focus exclusively on remaining in peak shape. I look forward to contributing immediately upon my return to the field and bringing a championship back to the people of Denver."

The NFL has two drug policies — one that covers use of performance-enhancing substances and the "Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse" that applied to Miller's case.

The Broncos had been operating throughout the preseason as if Miller would be with them for their opener Sept. 5.

Now, a team with Super Bowl aspirations must scramble to replace its best player on defense, the second pick of the 2011 draft, who was the NFL's 2011 Defensive Rookie of the Year and runner-up last season for the league's Defensive Player of the Year.

Likely to take his spot at the rush linebacker position is Shaun Phillips, a 10-year veteran the Broncos signed in free agency during the offseason.

"Replacing him on the field will not be easy, but every team must deal with adversity," coach John Fox said in a statement. "We will plan accordingly and be prepared."